E. coli, short for Escherichia coli, is a type of fecal coliform bacteria commonly found in the intestines of animals and humans. If it is found in your water, this indicates that either sewage or animal wastes have recently contaminated it.
During rainfalls, snow melts, or other types of precipitation, E. coli may be washed into creeks, rivers, streams, lakes, or ground water. When these waters are used as sources of drinking water and the water is not inadequately treated, E. coli may be inadvertently ingested.
Most of the hundreds of strains of E. coli are harmless and live in the intestines of healthy humans and animals. However E. coli O157:H7 is an exception; it produces a powerful toxin. Evidence but not proof of ingestion includes severe bloody diarrhea, abdominal cramps, or non-bloody diarrhea. Frequently, a fever will not be one of the symptoms.
In 2%-7% of those infected with E. coli O157:H7, the bacterium will also cause hemolytic uremic syndrome. This is evident when the red blood cells are destroyed and the kidneys fail. This condition is a life threatening and may require blood transfusions and kidney dialysis as treatments.
Symptoms usually appear within two to four days, but could take longer. With this strain of E. coli, antibiotics should actually be avoided since some exacerbate kidney problems. Recovery within five to ten days usually follows without antibiotics anyway. Any person who has sudden bloody diarrhea should get their stool tested for E. coli O157:H7 immediately. Children under five, the elderly, and those with weak immune systems are the most vulnerable.
You might ask, “Is my drinking water vulnerable to E. coli O157:H7?” Public water is by law constantly monitored for all bacterial contamination. But the other 11% of the population using private sources for water should be cautious, especially when farm animals are present. The addition of chlorine, or treatment of water with ultra-violet light or ozone all kill or inactivate this strain of E. coli.
Other precautions that can help you avoid contamination include these three:
Avoid drinking lake or pool water. Wash fruits and vegetables thoroughly, especially those that will not be cooked. Cook beef thoroughly and avoid unpasteurized milk.
If you have determined that your water source is contaminated, then the safest procedure is to boil the water. However, if you only suspect your water source may be contaminated, or if your water source is located in a place where contamination is even remotely possible, then a simple solution is available. Water filters using activated charcoal are able to remove E. coli to a level where it is undetectable. If the above symptoms concern you, purchasing a Berkey Water Purifier is a relatively inexpensive way to provide peace of mind for you and your family.
Possibly related articles:
- Well Water Contamination by Nitrogen Compounds
- Nitrate Pollution in Tap Water
- The Chemical Your Body Requires To Survive
Tags: E. Coli Contamination
